WITH some 60,000 Malaysian and international students staying on campus during the Movement Control Order (MCO), questions have been raised about their food supply and well-being.
The Higher Education Ministry had released guidelines that local and international students residing on campus, or in rented and private properties must remain in the premises during this period.
There have also been initiatives put in place by universities, organisations and individuals to provide food and basic necessities for the students.
Hailing from Kota Kinabalu, UiTM Shah Alam Industrial Physics student Irenebera Liawan, 21, said she did not expect that the university would be closed for two weeks.
“When my parents found out that I couldn't go home, they were worried and a bit disappointed, but they know it’s for my own safety and health.
“While the cafeteria is closed, UiTM provides us three meals a day so we're not worried. The cooperative is still open for us to buy snacks and other necessities. There is also auxiliary police and college resident staff with us on campus.
“It’s very important for universities to help their students at this time. I’m very grateful that UiTM provides sufficient meals for us each day,” said Irenebera.
Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP) civil engineering and earth resources student Muhammad Hasan Basri Mohd Ali, 21, decided not to return home to Kuala Rompin just yet to practice social distancing.
“I did not want to brave the large crowd and the heavy traffic. The cafe at my hostel is still open as usual and we are instructed to take away only. I’m not sure about food delivery.”
Launched early last year, the UMP Campus Pantry provides food supplies with the support of various agencies and individuals. In the wake of the MCO, the UMP Student Affairs and Alumni Department took the initiative to provide food assistance to students.
Yesterday, the university distributed 1,000 food packs for students along with hygiene essentials.
“I also received two small packages of instant noodles and snacks,” said Muhammad Hasan Basri.
At International Islamic University Malaysia, whose international students make up 23 per cent of the total population, a total of 2,500 students have remained on campus and they are not allowed to leave unless deemed necessary.
Essential services such as the IIUM Health and Wellness Centre, cafeteria, food bank and Visa Management Unit will continue to operate.
According to the IIUM Student Union Caretaker, the organisation, along with the IIUM Student Affairs and Development division are proactive in helping students with financial difficulties, especially from the B40 families.
Students also benefit from other assistance such as the Student Kitchen Project run by students and alumni and the Free Food Project by the IIUM Law Students Society.
Political Science student Usaimeen Waenalai, 21, from Thailand, said the university’s prompt guidelines in line with the MCO made the students feel prepared.
“Even before the order was announced, a lot of our classes were carried out online. But, with the rising number of cases in Malaysia, our concerns grew.”
As an international student, he knew that he was allowed to travel abroad.
“While we can travel home to Thailand, we would not be allowed to return during this period. So, most of my friends and I decided to stay as the procedure is quite tedious and it would be safer on university grounds.”
The cafeterias are open in rotation to meet the students’ needs, said Usaimeen.
“I usually take away my meals from the cafe, as no dine-ins are allowed. Universities play a role to provide basic amenities and I think IIUM has done their part.
“Our parents back home are worried, but they feel more at ease as long as we are indoors. I’m using my free time to reconnect with my family and exchange daily updates,” he said.
In line with the order, Universiti Teknologi Petronas, Perak students are not allowed to leave for home. Campus amenities such as cafeterias, mini marts
and laundry services are open.
Students are only allowed to buy necessities in the Seri Iskandar vicinity within one hour and have to be back immediately.
UTP foundation in engineering student Muhammad Hakim Azlin Shah,19 said going home may pose a risk as the number of Covid-19 cases in Negri Sembilan has reached 56 as of yesterday.
“My parents also think it’s best for me to be here, even though they are concerned as we have not met each other for two months. Staying on campus might be the best option.
“At this time, cafeterias are open and students are advised to reduce food delivery services as a safety precaution.
“As far as I know, students have not received any free food which can help ease our difficulties. There is a possibility of students facing financial troubles so any aid would certainly reduce their burdens,” said Muhammad Hakim.